DARDANELLE — Dardanelle High School (DHS) Principal Marcia Lawrence told the Dardanelle Board of Education during its regular meeting Monday to expect low Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) test scores the first year.

"The [Common Core] curriculum must be aligned to the test from grade to grade," Lawrence said. "We are not as smoothly aligned as we will be eventually. It will mean, in the short run, poor test scores."

Lawrence recommended the board compare DHS PARCC test scores with other schools in the state. Other schools have also struggled with aligning the new curriculum and scores across the board should reflect that, she said.

Jerry Don Woods, board vice president, said he appreciated Lawrence's candor and he believes DHS will show quick improvements.

"We didn't ask for Common Core, but we didn't oppose it either," he said. "I do believe — given time and appropriate support — I believe in our administration, and I'm confident our teachers can teach anything."